You may remember that several times in this blog I have suggested that words or terms that are repeated are good clues as to what is important to the author. Mark uses the word “disciple” 44 times (I don’t count the one after 16:8).
Mark uses the word “crowd” 20 times.
The interesting thing is that many times the two words are in contrast. Jesus teaches the crowd with a parable and then takes the disciples aside and explains the parable to them.
I am still working through the implications of this but one is clear. Jesus was more interested in His disciples understanding what He was teaching than He was the crowd.
What, if anything, should that tell us about ministry in our churches?
The interesting thing is that many times the two words are in contrast. Jesus teaches the crowd with a parable and then takes the disciples aside and explains the parable to them.
I am still working through the implications of this but one is clear. Jesus was more interested in His disciples understanding what He was teaching than He was the crowd.
What, if anything, should that tell us about ministry in our churches?
Neat observation!
ReplyDeleteOne possible implication is: Supplying many with pre-digested food is less important than training a few to feed themselves and train others.
Another might be that pastors should always have a few men that they are building into and spending more time with them explaining their messages...
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